Barrabas (Biblical Figure)
A prisoner mentioned in the New Testament who was released instead of Jesus during Passover.
IPA Pronunciation
bəˈrɑːbəs
Say It Like
Syllables
Barrabas is derived from the Aramaic 'Bar-Abba', meaning 'son of the father'. Historically, it was a common patronymic in Jewish culture but gained notoriety as the name of a prisoner released instead of Jesus in the New Testament. The name connotes rebellion and strong paternal lineage, reflecting its etymological roots and biblical context.
Cultural Significance of Barrabas
Barrabas holds significant cultural weight due to its biblical association as the prisoner freed over Jesus Christ, symbolizing themes of rebellion and redemption. It appears in Christian theology, literature, and art, often representing a contrast to Christ’s innocence. The name also reflects Jewish naming traditions and has been used symbolically in various cultural narratives.
Barrabas Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Barrabas is an uncommon and bold choice for a baby boy, often chosen by parents seeking a strong, historically rich name with biblical roots but distinct from mainstream Christian names. Its rarity makes it unique, though some may hesitate due to the controversial biblical story. It sees occasional use among families valuing ancient or Aramaic heritage.
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International Variations10
BarabbasBarrabaszBarabasBarabbesBarabbásBarabbàsBarabásBarrabásBarabbassBarabbace
Name Energy & Essence
The name Barrabas carries the essence of “Son of the father; rebel or son of the teacher” from Aramaic tradition. Names beginning with "B" often embody qualities of stability, nurturing, and groundedness.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Barrabas holds significant cultural weight due to its biblical association as the prisoner freed over Jesus Christ, symbolizing themes of rebellion and redemption. It appears in Christian theology, literature, and art, often representing a contrast to Christ’s innocence. The name also reflects Jewish naming traditions and has been used symbolically in various cultural narratives.
Barabbas of Jerusalem
A lesser-known Jewish rebel leader during the Roman occupation, sharing the name but distinct from the biblical figure.
Barabbas the Zealot
A figure associated with the Jewish Zealot movement resisting Roman rule, sometimes conflated with the biblical Barrabas.
Barrabás (Spanish band)
A Spanish musical group from the 1970s, named after the biblical figure, influential in Latin rock and funk.
Barabbas (1920 film)
A silent Swedish film interpreting the biblical story of Barrabas.
Barabbas (1961 film)
An Italian-American film exploring the life of the biblical prisoner.
Barabbas the Rebel
A character in medieval mystery plays symbolizing sin and redemption.
Barabbas in Literature
Featured in various literary works as a symbol of rebellion and choice between good and evil.
Barrabas Jiménez
Musician
Barrabas Torres
Artist
Barrabas Smith
Author
Barrabas Johnson
Historian
Barrabas Lee
Theologian
Barrabas Green
Filmmaker
Barrabas King
Musician
Barrabas White
Philosopher
Barabbas ()
The Bible: In the Beginning... ()
Barabbas ()
Jesus of Nazareth (TV miniseries) ()
Barabbas ()
The Passion of the Christ ()
Barabbas (opera) ()
Barabbas (radio play) ()
Barrabás
🌐Spanish
Barrabas
🌐French
Barrabas
🌐German
Barrabà
🌐Italian
バラバ (Baraba)
🌐Japanese
巴拉巴斯 (Bālǎbāsī)
🌐Chinese
براباس
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Barrabas
The name Barrabas was historically a popular patronymic before becoming infamous due to its biblical association as the prisoner released instead of Jesus.
Personality Traits for Barrabas
Individuals named Barrabas are often perceived as strong-willed, independent, and charismatic. They may embody a rebellious spirit tempered with loyalty and deep familial bonds. The name suggests a complex personality with resilience, leadership qualities, and a hint of mystery or defiance.
What does the name Barrabas mean?
Barrabas is a Aramaic name meaning “Son of the father; rebel or son of the teacher”. Barrabas is derived from the Aramaic 'Bar-Abba', meaning 'son of the father'. Historically, it was a common patronymic in Jewish culture but gained notoriety as the name of a prisoner released instead of Jesus in the New Testament. The name connotes rebellion and strong paternal lineage, reflecting its etymological roots and biblical context.
How do you pronounce Barrabas?
Barrabas is pronounced (IPA: bəˈrɑːbəs). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Barrabas?
Popular nicknames for Barrabas include: Barra, Baz, Bari, Rabby, Bas, Babs, Barby, Baze, Rab, Bar.
Who are famous people named Barrabas?
Famous people named Barrabas include: , , , , .
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Barrabas is a beautiful Aramaic name meaning “Son of the father; rebel or son of the teacher”. Barrabas is derived from the Aramaic 'Bar-Abba', meaning 'son of the father'. Historically, it was a common patronymic in Jewish culture but gained notoriety as the name of a prisoner released instead...
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